Sentinel 7-9-14 by Bugle, Sentinel & Enterprise Newspapers

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Voyager Media Publications • shorewoodsentinel.com

Vol. 19 No. 31

guest column

Crossroads pre-party for families with special needs

Event to feature rides, food, Kids Zone and more

By steWArt WArren STAFF REPORTER It’s time to sink or sail. And you’ll go for glory in a homemade boat, a vessel made of simple materials: cardboard and duct tape. That’s right. Cardboard and duct tape. The village of Shorewood is having its second Cardboard Boat Regatta at 2 p.m. on July 26 at Towne Center Park, 1 Towne Center Blvd., Shorewood. The event is free and open to individuals, families and businesses, said Denise Schmidt, recreation, business and special event planner for the village. There’s no need to register in advance. In fact, anyone can show up at the park between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. on July 26 and participate, Schmidt said. There are some rules, however. The boat must be made only of regular cardboard and duct tape. And the more decorated the boat is, the better, but there are rules about that, too. “The decorations cannot impact the seaworthiness,” Schmidt said, explaining that special paints that might make the boat watertight cannot be used, for example. There will be prizes for fastest time across the pond, best boat decorating theme and most spectacular sink. Last year, Shorewood Building Inspector Jose Zavala made the biggest splash while taking on water. He was the captain of the Shorewood Chamber of Commerce’s boat, a ship that looked like a shark. “He went down like a rock,” Schmidt said. “He ended up on his back, blowing water out of his mouth like a whale, towing the boat to shore and doing the backstroke! It was an absolutely spectacular sinking.” Don’t worry -this won’t be like the Titanic. The Troy Fire Protection District has its boat in the water during the competition, and firefighters are ready to assist if there are any real problems in the 10-foot deep pond. Sailors also are required to provide their own life vests and wear them while in the water, Schmidt said.

see ‘sAil’ PAge 3

The Details. Ryan and McKenna Quigley of

Wilmington competed in last year’s Cardboard Boat Regatta, rowing the Shorewood Chamber of Commerce’s entry that was meant to look like a shark. McKenna Quigley won a trophy for the fastest race time in last year’s Cardboard Boat Regatta. (PHOTOS COURTESY OF VILLAGE OF SHOREWOOD)

Last year’s pre-party for families with special needs was so popular that the event will be held again at this year’s annual Shorewood Crossroads Festival. The festival will open two hours early at 1 p.m. Aug. 1 for an exclusive pre-party designed specifically for families that include children with special needs. The annual festival, Kim Lamansky, which runs Aug. 1-3 Shorewood Area at Four Seasons Park. Chamber of Note: The festival will Commerce President, open two hours early said rides, food, a Kids at 1 p.m. Aug. 1 for an Zone and other events exclusive pre-party designed for the designed specifically families with special for families that needs will make the include children with special needs. day a family favorite for years to come. Lamansky said families with children with special needs appreciate the more relaxed, quiet setting the pre-party gives them. “Eternal stimulation is cut down considerably, and the limited amount of attendees helps families enjoy the park,” she explained. Families who want to attend the two hour pre-party are asked to RSVP by July 29 by calling the chamber office at 815-725-2900 or by going to www.CrossroadsFest.com. The annual festival, which runs Aug. 1-3 at Four Seasons Park, will feature all the events, activities and entertainment that festival-goers have come to expect over the years. Fireworks, live music, car show, parade, hot dog eating, bags competition, Beautiful Baby Contest, bingo, carnival rides, and a variety of food vendors will provide something for everyone. Marianne Eisenbrandt

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

News

guest column

It’s been a busy year at the library We checked out 169,246 items this year, with a door count of 77,472 items You would think that librarians are all about words and sentences, but we’re also all about numbers. Numbers tell our story, too, after all! The Shorewood-Troy Library counts its year from July 1 to June 30th, so our “year” just ended. We’ll have an Annual Report of the Library ready in August in-house and online, but we wanted to share some quick numbers with you now. We checked out 169,246 items this year, with a door count of 77,472. That’s a lot of traffic for a 15,000-square-foot library with only about 55,000 items! We held 715 programs for all ages (from birth to senior citizen, about two programs every day of the year. We had great attendance, too – 9,251 people attended our programs. We had 1,956 outreach points of contact, which means delivering books to retirement communities, going to class visits at the school, and participating in community events. We answered 20,252 questions last year from our customers, answering questions from “do you

stock photo

The Shorewood-Troy Library checked out 169,246 items this year, with a door count of 77,472.

have this title?” to providing help for school reports, and assisting patrons looking for employment, among many other questions. Looking forward to the next year, the Library is going to be undergoing some changes! We’ll be replacing our two-story window, because of safety concerns, with large picture windows, with a wall in-fill. We’re hopeful that project will be completed this fall. We’ve appointed one of our staff, Kristin McGaffic, to be the Outreach Librarian for the Children’s Department, joining Shalyn Rodriguez, as the Outreach Librarian for theAdult Department. Kristin will be getting out into

the community, doing more class visits, and visits to daycares. The building will also be refreshed with a paint job in the downstairs lobby. The creation of a small meeting room space will also be done in August, and will be available for rental by small groups, up to 15 people. Our new study room on the first floor has been very popular, so we know our patrons are looking for more meeting spaces. For more information about the past year, or for information about the upcoming changes, call 815725-1715! - Shorewood-Troy Library Staff

troy district

Troy Fire Department to host blood drive

Event scheduled for July 12 The Troy Fire Department will hold a community blood drive on July 12 at Station #2, 25454 Seil Road, Shorewood. Heartland’s mobile coach will be in the fire station’s lot from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The drive is >> sail, from page 1 It’s a really fun event for families, said Julie Quigley of Wilmington. She was the finance director at the Shorewood Chamber of Commerce last year, and her daughters competed in the race. But the kids were a little confused by the concept when they first heard about it. “I came home from work one day and said,‘Do you want to be in a cardboard boat race?’ And they said, ‘Huh? What are we doing?’” she remembered. Once they got the hang of it,

being sponsored in a joint effort between Troy Fire Department and Air Methods Life Star 1. Anyone who donates during this time will receive a $5 gift card to Subway Restaurant as a “thank you” for making a life-saving blood donation. Appointments can be scheduled

by calling (815) 519-2968.Walk-ins are also welcome. A photo ID is required. More than 41,000 blood donations are needed daily in the U.S.A donation by one person can save up to three lives. If you have questions about your eligibility to donate blood, call 1-(800)7TOGIVE.

they loved it. Daughters Ryan and McKenna Quigley, 10 and 14, are very competitive, she said. On the day of the race, the whole family was involved. “My husband Jamie was there too. He was duct taping at the last minute, and the kids were trying the boat out. I was sitting taking pictures,” Julie said. You don’t have to participate to attend.Everyone is invited to show up on the day of the race with lawn chairs and picnic baskets. It’s just as fun to sit on the shore and cheer your favorite team, Schmidt said.

The village entered its own boat in the race last year, Mayor Rick Chapman said. It was made to look like an old-fashioned outhouse, and the crew called themselves “The Potty Pirates.” Chapman grabbed a paddle himself for a while. “It went across the lake and back again,” he said. In fact, the boat lives on. It’s stored in the village hall’s basement. “It did not sink!” the mayor said, sounding proud. For more information about the event, call (815) 725-2150.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

News

will county

Joliet backs medical marijuana dispensary proposal Proposal comes from Will County Judge and partners By stewart warren stAff reporter

stewartwarren509@yahoo.com @stewartwarren

Will County Judge Robert Livas and a group comprised of family and a close friend want to open a medical marijuana dispensary in Joliet. Now they have the city’s permission to do so. Although the project has been on the table for some time, the judge’s involvement wasn’t revealed until Monday when he and the other members of the group -- Traci Fernandez, Livas’ daughter, Hugo Fernandez, her husband, and Kathy Tucker, the chief operating officer and a family friend – appeared at the Joliet City Council’s workshop meeting. They explained their plans to the council, emphasizing an intention to donate 25 percent of the business’ profits to charity if the state ultimately gives them permission to open. On Tuesday, the Council members voted unanimously during their regular meeting to approve the group’s request for a special use permit – a type of official permission – to open the facility inside a business condominium at 1627 Rock Creek Blvd. in the Rock Run Business Park. Now they must seek approval from the state, a process that could take months. After the vote on Tuesday, the judge and his partners quickly

Bugle File Photo

1627 Rock Creek Blvd., the site of the proposed medical marijuana dispensary in the Rock Run Business Park. The industrial area is off Houbolt Road and just north of Interstate 80.

left the meeting without that was not why he was at city chest to her feet, cannot walk commenting. hall. and uses a wheelchair. They all were smiling. “I am not here tonight as The disease attacked her Called the Compassionate a judge. I am here as a father unexpectedly. Care Center, the proposed to support his daughter,” Livas “It literally occurred dispensary is Traci’s brainchild. said. overnight,” Traci said, So when explaining that the group she went to bed “This is, for us, a vehicle to help explained their one night feeling patients in the local communities and fine, woke up in plan to the council during terrible pain and fund the research to help them get the workshop was paralyzed the better,” Hugo said. session held next day. At the on Monday, she time, she was 37 did most of the talking along Traci’s inspiration for the years old and the mother of with Mike Martin, their lawyer. business is related to the state two young children. Meanwhile Livas, who is of her own health. “Traci and the rest of the retiring from the bench in She suffers from transverse team … have an intimate November, did not address the myelitis, a rare neurological understanding of how difficult council. disease that affects her spine it is to find relief from what can After the meeting held and can be related to multiple be debilitating pain and other Monday, he explained that he sclerosis. difficult conditions,” according was part of the company, but She is paralyzed from her to a fact sheet on the proposed

dispensary. The group is also trying to open another dispensary in the Naperville area and has signed a lease for a location in DuPage County. The process of obtaining the special use permit began earlier this year. David Donka of Sugar Grove is the owner of the business condo. Donka requested the special use permit because the business condo’s zoning classification did not permit a medical marijuana dispensary. The permit will allow the business to open there without going through the process of a change in zoning. The state requires a proposed marijuana dispensary to find and secure a site before granting permission for a business to operate. So the Compassionate Care Center had to get the special use permit before going forward with their plans. The group does not have the state’s permission to open a dispensary yet. It might be months before that authorization granted – if it ever is. As part of Traci’s search for a cure for her condition and others, the Fernandez family created a not-for-profit called the United Paralysis Association, and 20 percent of the proposed dispensary’s profits would be given to the group. The remaining 5 percent will be given to a charity chosen by the city. “This is, for us, a vehicle to help patients in the local communities and fund the research to help them get better,” Hugo said.

News

will county

Lockport’s Public Landing allows dogs to dine with their best friends Dog-friendly dining includes ‘Yappy Hour,’ tasty treats from the ‘Yappetizer Menu’ By Pat Schager

For the bugle/sentinel

sweditor@buglenewspapers.com @BugleNewspapers

It has gone to the dogs. Yes, the Public Landing Restaurant and Banquet Center is one with the world where dogs are as welcome as diners. Dogs and their owners are invited to share time for lunch or dinner on the spectacular patio on the grounds of the historic Gaylord Building in downtown Lockport. Dog-friendly dining includes “Yappy Hour” and tasty treats from the “Yappetizer Menu.” “Well-behaved dogs have been welcomed to accompany their owners for the past several years,” says restaurant owner Dan Senese. “One dog, Rascal, comes every Friday with his friend (owner).” Senese says the wait staff enjoys seeing the dogs. “We’ve had tiniest dogs to mastiffs enjoying the relaxing outdoors with their owners and never any trouble.” After lunch or dinner there are plenty of places along the patio courtyard to stroll along the I&M Canal path and Lincoln Landing Park. On a recent Friday, a very special first birthday party was celebrated with Jasper and his closest human friends. Jasper is a bichon-shih tzu mix celebrating his first birthday. He wasn’t too thrilled to wear a party hat until the cameras appeared. Owner Julie Carbajal and friends Gina Zito and Andrea Frausto and five of their children watched as Jasper happily devoured his restaurant treats. Jasper was being carefully watched from a distance by four dogs that came with their owners. “This is our first time at the restaurant with our dogs,” said Taylor Reese and Elisia Norman. “Looks like fun.” Little Jasper looked happy to see he might have company at his party. But the four dogs, much larger breeds, just looked wearily on at the youngster. Yappetizer items on the doggy menu include Quarter Hounder, Hen House Chicken Strips, Hot Diggity Dog, Eggs Rover Easy, Good Dog and Fido’s Feast, all

By Pat Schager | For the bugle/sentinel

From left, Erica Carbajal, Julie Carbajal, Jasper and Gina Zito celebrate Jasper’s first birthday at Public Landing in Lockport.

By Pat Schager | For the bugle/sentinel

Taylor Reese and her three pups enjoy the outdoors around the historic Public Landing restaurant.

served in a collectible Frisbee and a bowl of purified water. Then there’s Yappy Hour Tuesday through Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. where the yappetizers are half price. Not that the dogs notice. Lunch or dinner on the patio is open to the public and dogowners and pets Tuesday through Sunday weather permitting. Dogs are not allowed in the restaurant. Cats aren’t allowed at all. The restaurant is located in the historic limestone Gaylord Building, 200 W. 8th Street in historic Lockport. The building was constructed in 1838 as a construction depot for the I&M Canal linking Lake Michigan with the Illinois River. It is on the list of National Register of Historic Places. The building was also featured in the film “Public Enemies”, starring Johnny Depp, another first for the site. Recently, artworks by

international renowned artist Matt Lamb were hung on the original stone interior walls of the restaurant. Lamb is known for his contemporary paintings and especially “Painting For Peace” which has collected signatures of celebrities. According to his website, daughter Sheila Lamb Gambler said the painting will be sent around the world and then auctioned off with proceeds going to “Mending Kids International.” The indoor portion of the restaurant is well known locally for outstanding menus and occasional special dining experiences. The patio is a natural setting to enjoy an al fresco meal and stroll along with a friendly pooch, says restaurant manager Anita Donnelly. Besides, the park is sprayed every Friday for pesky things like ticks and mosquitoes. “Bone” appetite.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

Police Blotter

14 10

31 15 27 32 30 24 28 4 25 11 26

6 19

3 29 1 8

The following items were compiled from the official reports of the Joliet Police Department. Appearing in the police blotter does not constitute a finding of guilt, only a court of law can make that determination.

Joliet 1

Marquita Ashford, 39, 2602 Inwood Lane, was arrested at 3:33 p.m. June 27 at 2424 W. Jefferson for theft.

Kyle M. Grim, 27, 6 N. 793, St. Charles, was arrested at 8:54 p.m. June 27 at 3000 W. Jefferson for disorderly conduct.

Morgan M. Yersich, 23, 6418 W. 6 St., was arrested at 4:27 a.m. June 27 at 2798 W. Jefferson for retail theft.

Tracie L. Abron, 30, 327 N. Broadway St., was arrested at 10:09 a.m. June 27 at 327 N. Broadway for theft.

Paul M. DeAngeles, 36, 2900 Twin Falls Drive, Plainfield, was arrested at 9:01 a.m. June 27 on the 2800 block of Twin Falls for possession of controlled substance.

James S. Greer, 60, 350 E. Washington, was arrested

at 10:03 a.m. June 27 at 508 E. Cass for criminal trespass to real property.

Phillip F. Tade, 43, 4515 Peacock Lane, Plainfield, was arrested at 2:35 p.m. June 27 at 1560 Route 59 for possession of controlled substance with intent to deliver and suspended/ revoked driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license.

Amanda A. Fitzgerald, 21, 521 Blackhawk, was arrested at 8:11 p.m. June 27 at 2424 W. Jefferson for retail theft.

Anthony Z. Parker, 23, 3234 W. Madison, Chicago, was arrested at 10:08 p.m. June 27 on the 600 Block of Virginia for domestic battery and a warrant. Aaron N. Faynik, 20, 1004 Buell Ave., was arrested at 11:12 p.m. June 27 at Prairie and Sherwood for obstructing a peace officer, resisting a peace officer, criminal damage to state supported property and battery.

Efren R. Reyes, 49, 202 E. Cass, was arrested at 8:57 p.m. June 28 at 56 N. Chicago for liquor on public way.

David J. Bales, 23, 610 McDonough St., was arrested at 4:38 a.m. June 28 at 712 W. Jefferson for possession of cannabis.

Cory C. Givens, 42, 34320 Lakeside Terrace, Wilmington, was arrested at 6:49 p.m. June 28 at 777 Hollywood for confining animal in motor vehicle.

8:40 p.m. June 28 at 200 Parks for battery. Mosqueda, 54, 209 20 Eduardo Parks Ave., was arrested at 8:57 p.m. June 28 at 200 Parks for domestic battery.

Ottawa for liquor on public way. Efren R. Reyes, 49, 202 E. Cass, was arrested at 3:51 p.m. June 29 at 201 W. Jefferson for liquor on public way.

Larry C. Taylor, Jr., 42, 719 landau Ave., was arrested at 1:39 p.m. June 28 at 824 Collins for criminal trespass to real property.

E. Griffis, 36, 26 W. 21 Lewis Clinton, was arrested at 9:42 p.m. June 28 at 22 E. Clinton for domestic battery.

Matthue M. Brown, 37, 1621 Theodore St., was arrested at 7:53 p.m. June 29 at Chicago and Van Buren for liquor on public way.

Davion L. Stevenson, 22, 810 E. 193 St., Glenwood, was arrested at 5:53 June 28 at 362 N. Broadway for criminal trespass to real property.

Ryan T. Battaglia, 35, 2206 Olde Mill Road, Plainfield, was arrested at 11:38 p.m. June 28 at 2206 Olde Mill for domestic battery.

Salvador Gallegos, 53, 907 Wilcox St., was arrested at 1:21 p.m. p.m. June 29 at 2524 West Jefferson for cruelty to animals.

Vicki L. Churnovic, 53, 635 Central Ave., was arrested at 6:22 p.m. June 28 at 635 Central for domestic battery and battery.

Frank Barefield, 44, 223 S. State St., Lockport, was arrested at 11:37 p.m. June 28 on the 800 block of Robin for criminal trespass to state supported property.

John L. Pyka, 50, 26 W. Clinton, was arrested at 6:48 p.m. p.m. June 29 at 201 West Jefferson for liquor on public way.

Nicholas L. Williams, 26, 14505 Demmond, was arrested at 8:23 p.m. June 28 at 14505 Demmond for aggravated domestic battery, interfering with the reporting of domestic battery, and criminal damage to property.

Kyle A. Sears, 24, 2008 Black Road, was arrested at 7:51 p.m. June 28 at 3340 Mall Loop for retail theft.

Linda L. Marinez, 54, 209 Parks Ave., was arrested at

C. Session, 28, 2127 24 Robert Englewood, Lockport, was arrested at 4:22 p.m. June 29 at 201 W. Jefferson for liquor on public way. L. Blake, 34, 928 25 Daniel Magnolia, was arrested at 4:22 p.m. June 29 at 201 West Jefferson for liquor on public way. Cindy R. Gans, 57, 206 Adella Ave., was arrested at 2:32 p.m. p.m. June 29 at 167 N.

Kendale Coleman, 24, 16 S. William, was arrested at 7:17 p.m. June 29 at 201 West Jefferson for liquor on public way.

Tommy L. Laster, 46, homeless, was arrested at 7:17 p.m. June 29 at 201 West Jefferson for liquor on public way.

For more Joliet Blotter, visit www. buglenewspapers.com

forUM

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OUR HOUSE

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

letter to the editor WiTH ReP. naTalie manleY (D-JOLIET) 98TH DISTRICT

General Assembly passed a responsible budget, makes efforts to prevent massive cuts to state priorities

cuts were made in other areas. Failure to pass this budget would inevitably lead to massive cuts to vital programs that none of us want to see. As a CPA and someone who has done budgeting for businesses, Though I have been in office individuals and government only a short time, I can relate entities for years, I have fought to the frustration of not having for a budgeting process based detailed information about major on realistic revenues and fiscal state issues and happenings in responsibility. Under a reformed budget process, the state government. For General Assembly uses this reason, I have been an estimated revenue committed to getting amount derived by accurate information out a non-partisan fiscal to area residents. I want agency, known as to give you an update COGFA (Commission on some major financial on Government issues that came before rep. nAtALie mAnLey Forecasting and the General Assembly this (D-JoLIeT) 98TH DIsTrICT Accountability) as the spring: starting point. The The General Assembly passed a responsible budget that legislature carves revenues off makes great efforts to prevent the top, to first fund the state’s mandated massive cuts to state priorities constitutionally payments (pension, debt service, like education, public safety, etc.). This practice is exactly health care and human services. The budget protects funding for what you and I would use within continued statewide operations. our own household budgets: We To provide a desperately needed pay the “needs” first, and then increase to education funding, find out what else we are able to

afford. Since taking office and to participate in the shared sacrifice required to get the state back on track financially, I have voted several times to cut my own pay and reject salary increases. The budget we passed funded lawmakers’ pay at the same level as the budget we passed last year. However, a court decision prohibited lawmakers from reducing their salary through unpaid furlough days. As intended, I will keep my commitment and donate any reinstated amount to a local nonprofit agency in the district. We passed legislation out of the House to provide EDGE tax credits; this will help small businesses create jobs. This measure will help to revitalize the economy, retain and attract businesses and jobs to our area, and it will be done in a targeted and responsible way. I will keep working to see this bill become law. The legislature has paid down >> see our house | page 8

letter to the editor

Confusion from the Bergdahl situation If he is a traitor, he needs to be tried, convicted, reduced in rank

As a loyal American and veteran, I’m embarrassed and confused by the Bergdahl situation. Apparently, he wasn’t just AWOL based on media reports with notes he left along with the interview with his squad mates. Since he thought about leaving, knew it wasn’t right, and did it during a conflict period, it may well be desertion. It is also reported that he was searching for the enemy. Shortly after the enemy claimed custody, they wanted an exchange for the five they got. Could he have been complicit in the whole endeavor? On 6/16/14, Mary Strange in USA TODAY tries to rationalize his actions based on faith (both previous and current,)

parents’ ideas and even his previous interactions with other Asian based faiths and French foreign Legion. If he was that confused, he never should have been accepted into the service. During the five years, many risked their lives, and a lot of assets and energy were expended to get him back. They deserve justice. When he was released, his captors’ body language, to wit: a pat on the shoulder, observed on the video, was not consistent with an enemy, but more like a friend. We Americans, his fellow soldiers, those who risked their lives, and his family deserve the complete truth – NOW!! If he is a traitor, he needs to be tried, convicted, reduced in rank, and separated from the service as such. We Americans and vets deserve justice. Mark Turk Joliet

Commemorating the Americans with Disabilities Act There have been important victories as discrimination cases were brought before the courts July is the month for two significant anniversaries. All Americans celebrate July Fourth as the date that our nation declared its independence. This important day means picnics, fireworks, parades and an overall feeling of patriotism. This month also commemorates another important declaration of independence. On July 26, 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This Federal law provides equal access and equal opportunity to Americans with disabilities in the areas of employment, state and local government, public accommodations, transportation, and communication. Disability rights advocates worked tirelessly with Congress

that ultimately resulted in this landmark piece of legislation. Upon signing the bill, President Bush remarked,“Let the shameful wall of exclusion finally come tumbling down.” There have been important victories as discrimination cases were brought before the courts. Most significantly, the Olmstead Decision stated that institutionalizing people with disabilities, who wanted to live in the community, was a violation of their civil rights under the ADA. Each state was to create a plan that would give people with disabilities in institutions the opportunity to move into the community with proper supports. Illinois is very slowly complying with this order. On the local front, the Will-

Grundy Center for Independent Living, and its supporters, began a campaign titled “Accessible Will County.” The goal of this effort is to make Will County the most accessible county in Illinois. Part of this campaign is asking municipalities within the twocounty area to declare July 2026 “Accessibility Awareness Week.” These proclamations cite three issue areas that need improvement/expansion. They are: housing, transportation, and general accessibility. Several cities have made such proclamations. It is our hope that all cities and towns will follow suit. We also request that each municipal government ensures that it complies with the ADA to provide access for all citizens. Pam Heavens Executive Director Will-Grundy Center for Independent Living

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014 >> our house, from page 7 a large chunk of its backlog of “old bills.” Since I arrived in Springfield in 2013, the legislature has devoted $4.5 billion to doing this, and though we have more work to do, this is significant. The bipartisan effort to pay down our old bills has had a positive effect on our Moody credit rating. According to Moody’s in a statement last month, “[Illinois] has used an estimated $26 billion … since 2011 to address its pension contribution requirements and to reduce a large backlog of payments to vendors, municipalities, public universities and other entities… The $5.6 billion backlog the governor’s budget estimated for June 30, 2014, would represent a 43% drop from a $9.9 billion peak set in 2010.” Working toward an improved bond rating and paying off debt service means relief for Illinois’ residents, as tax dollars will not be allocated to pay exorbitant interest rates on borrowed funds. I carefully tracked and restricted the budget for my district office allotment to be able to return a portion of funds to the state. Legislators receive

a district office allotment to pay for office expenses like rent and utilities. I worked to identify areas in the district allotment to reduce spending, saving scarce taxpayer dollars. Of local interest, the legislature passed House Bill 3794, which provides for desperately needed maintenance and repairs to

Working toward an improved bond rating and paying off debt service means relief for Illinois’ residents... roads and bridges all over the state (the interchange at Weber Road and I-55 is part of that plan). Quality infrastructure is necessary to health of many businesses in the Will County area.These projects will not only enhance the quality of life for the thousands of people that use the roadways every day, but will also create and retain jobs for numerous Illinois residents. The heroin epidemic is reaching frightening numbers throughout the state, and the

efforts to combat it here in Will County continue. Reaching a death toll in Will County in 2012 of 53 (more than traffic accidents and homicides combined), that number has been reduced dramatically in 2013. The Young Adults Heroin Task Force, established by law in 2012, has been gathering data throughout our communities, at forums throughout the state, listening to testimony from parents, law enforcement and first responders, drug and alcohol treatment professionals, etc., that will ultimately aid in the development of a statewide plan to designed to educate students. I know there are many important topics and initiatives I don’t have room to discuss here. Since returning home from session in Springfield in early June, I have held numerous “coffee shop stops,” town halls and community-based committee meetings to discuss some of the legislation that was proposed, the status and potential impact. As always, please feel free to contact me at my constituent service office to learn more or to express your views at 701 Black Rd., Suite 201, Joliet, IL 60435, by phone at (815) 725-2741 or by email at repmanley@gmail. com.

INSIDE: Male Multisport Athlete of the Year, page 10; Female Multisport Athlete of the Year, page 12; Golf Review, page 14

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

Slammers to play softball in Battle of Sexes By Mark Gregory sports reporter

mark@buglenewspapers.com @Hear_The_Beard

Guys don’t like striking out at the plate. It can be even worse when they are struck out by a girl. No matter the talent level of the female pitcher, the fear will be there and members of the Joliet Slammers baseball team will have the chance to face those fears at 7:05 p.m. Monday, July 14 when they take on the Dutch National Fast Pitch Softball team in a Battle of the Sexes game at Silver Cross Field. While the Slammers’ hitters are looking forward to the challenge, they know hitting a softball pitcher will not be easy as the ball comes from a completely different plane than they are used to. “I have never hit against a softball pitcher before, but I’m looking forward to it,” said Adam Giacalone, the Slammers’ first baseman, currently batting .285 with four homers and 16 RBI. “I am probably going to just come out here and look dumb. I am just going to close my eyes and swing. It is going to be real interesting. The fans are going to probably get a good laugh.” Giacalone is looking forward to the closer base paths in a softball game. “It might make me look fast,” joked the former 16th round pick of the Milwaukee Brewers. One of the Slammers’ top hitter this season, Grant DeBruin, said he faced a fast pitch softball pitcher once more than five years ago. “One time in high school I hit off our ace who went to Kent State and I didn’t touch it,” said DeBruin, who is hitting .357 this season.“If they start throwing that rise ball, it will be game over for us. In baseball, there is no rise.” The Joliet third baseman knows the guys are set up for failure, but knows the game will be fun for

players and fans. “They are going to think, these are professional baseball players against professional softball player, the guy should do it. It is not easy to hit a softball,” DeBruin said.“We are out there to give the people a good time, which I’m sure will happen. It is an experience that I am sure will be great. I am looking forward to it.” One member of the Slammers who has more recent experience hitting softball pitching is outfielder Marquis Riley. Riley was a starter in the Frontier All-Star game last season and he faced the Akron Racers Fast Pitch Softball team as part of an All-Star week exhibition. “It is hard,” Riley said. “I faced a girl in high school and she struck me out. At the All- game last year, it was just ambush the first pitch because you want to get a fastball and not let them throw the junk. They can throw a ball that moves all four directions and that is something we are not used to. You just have to jump on the first pitch that looks straight and hope you hit it, because after that, good luck.” This will be the first time the Slammers will host this event and tickets are currently on sale for the game. General admission tickets will be $7, reserved tickets will be $12, and club tickets will be $15. “This is a once in a lifetime event for the Slammers and residents of Will County and beyond. We expect a packed house on July 14,” said Slammers General Manager Chris Franklin. The Slammers will also be hosting two softball camps that day. There will be a general camp for youth players ages U6 to U12 from 1-2:30 p.m. and an elite camp for U12 to U16 players from 3:30-5 p.m. Each camp is $70, which

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

All-Star Grant DeBruin and the Slammers will face the Dutch National softball team Monday, July 14.

includes four reserved tickets to the Battle of the Sexes game. Group discounts are available for the game. For more information about the Battle of the Sexes game or camps,

visit www.jolietslammers.com or call (815)722-2287.

ALL-STARS Three Slammers have been selected to the Frontier League All-

Star game. Russell Moldenhauer will be the starter at Designated Hitter for the West at GCS Ballpark, the >> see BATTLE | page 13

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

Sports

Spinuzza tabbed as the Male Multisport Athlete of the Year By Mark Gregory sports reporter

mark@buglenewspapers.com @Hear_The_Beard

Childhood was not particularly kind to Downers Grove South senior Danny Spinuzza – but from the outside looking in, you wouldn’t know. Spinuzza’s mom died when he was only 10 years old, leaving his dad, Jim, to raise him as a single parent. Like most fathers and sons, the Spinuzza’s bonded over sports and as Danny excelled through his career, he said he did it all as an appreciation and testament to his dad. After being a member of both the Voyager Media basketball and baseball teams and being invited to the Prep Shootout senior basketball team, Danny is the 2014 Voyager Media Multisport Athlete of the Year. “It is humbling. Dealing with all the hardships in my childhood, there was always one person I knew I that would be there for me and that was my father,” Danny said.“All of the awards and accomplishments I have achieved weren’t for the satisfaction of myself, but as a thank you to my dad for all that he has done. He was always there for me and kept me motivated and kept me on the right path and all this is for him.” On the basketball court, Spinuzza tallied 14.1 points and 3.7 rebounds per game, while posting 68 assists, 40 steals and 39 three-pointers. “Danny Spinuzza was a threeyear varsity starter,” Downers South basketball coach Kristopher Olson said. “Danny started every game and we only took him out when he was in foul trouble. Danny was our floor general and he set our offense up. Danny also made the big shot when necessary. He was our best ball handler and we had no back up for him.” On the diamond, he was a lefthanded pitcher and outfielder for the Mustangs’ team that reached the Class 4A supersectional, winning the sectional title for only the second time in school history. He batted .425 with 34 hits

Mark Gregory/Bugle staff

JCA sophomore Drake Fellows is the Joliet-area Male Multisport Athlete of the Year.

and 20 RBI. He went 7-2 on the mound with a 1.28 ERA. He said he never really considered choosing between the two sports he loves. “I don’t really try and take in other people’s opinion,” Danny said.“My father and I talked about it and he told me to do what I love to do and what I loved to do is play both. Going from one season, right to the other was difficult, but I stayed focused and put all my effort into whatever sport was in season at that time.” While he enjoyed it in high school and considered playing both in college,Danny has decided to hang up the sneakers and focus

on baseball at the next level. He is currently looking over schools, saying he will probably play next season at a junior college because of his late decision. Other Multisport Athletes of the Year in other zones include:

TUF BORLAND Only a sophomore, the Bolingbrook linebacker paced the team with 101 total tackles. He had 10 tackles for loss, one sack, five pass break-ups and two interceptions. He was one of the leaders of >> see MALE | page 15

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

Sports

Talent, training a winning formula for AOY Slowek By mike sandrolini For the bugle

mike@buglenewspapers.com @voyagersport

Nothing last summer could keep Elanta Slowek from completing her training regimen in preparation for her senior year at Maine East. Not even if the gates at the school’s football field, where the track is located, happened to be locked. “I’d just go over the fence and do what I had to do,” she said. Voyager Media’s Female Multisport Athlete of the Year estimates that she spent around six hours per day, six days a week during the summer either training or going to camps to help hone her skills. “(All) that gave me an advantage,” she said, “Because >> see FEMALE | page 16

File Photo

Chavon Banks is the Joliet Female Multisport Athlete.

Sports >> BATTLE, from page 9 home of the Gateway Grizzlies on Wednesday July 16 at 7pm. Also making the All-Star team from the Slammers are DeBruin and starting pitcher Blair Walters. Moldenhauer, the former Washington Nationals prospect, was a 1st-team postseason Frontier

League All-Star for Lake Erie in 2013. He was named the Frontier League Player-of-the-Week for his performance in the first week of June this season when he hit .542 with five RBI. The University of Texas product is currently hitting .286 with 8 doubles, 5 homers and a team-best 26 RBI. DeBruin is currently ranked

4th in the Frontier League in batting average at .357 and has hit safely in 16 of his last 17 games. He leads the Slammers with 60 hits, 12 doubles, a .500 slugging percentage, an OPS (on-base-plusslugging-percentage) of .903 and has a team-high 16 extra base hits. DeBruin is 10 for his last 21, a .476 batting average in his last five

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014 games. He holds the school record for career batting average at UABHuntsville at .378. Walters has been the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most consistent starting pitcher and is currently 11th in the Frontier League in ERA at 2.66. He leads the league in innings pitched with 67 2/3 and has one complete game. Batters are only hitting .218 against him in 2014. His best

performance came against River City on June 8th when he went 8 shutout innings while allowing just two hits. He struck out 9 and walked only two. Walters, an 11th round pick of the White Sox in the 2011 draft, also threw 7 shutout innings against Schaumburg on July 1st. He allowed only five hits and struck out four to earn the win.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

Golf Review

mark + scott’s

review

Tanna Farms

Strategic plan Tanna Farms has unique setup For the past couple years, I’ve been seeing pictures of Tanna Farms Golf Club in Geneva and have been taylor’s take looking forward by scott taylor to playing there. I got that opportunity to review the course a couple of weeks ago and it lived up to my expectations. For $49 with a cart during the week, it is one of the best value courses around the Chicagoland area. While it has some of the similar problems of a cheaper course (players not replacing ball marks and divots), the course is still beautiful with plenty of strategy. It is rare for a course to start with a par-3, but that is exactly the case with Tanna Farms. The first hole is a short par-3 (120 from blue) that plays over the water. Considering there is no driving range, this is a tough short iron start to open your round, but it is a great golf hole to start. That is followed up with a reachable par-5 (482) and then there is another par-3 over water, this one playing at 167 yards. The first major strategic hole is the fourth hole, the first par-4 on the course. From the blue it

plays 345, but with a dogleg, it is more like 315. However, there is water in front of the green and homes to the left, making it a major risk/reward. A unique par-5 follows with a narrow landing to place second shots in between water on each side. A very tough hole. Holes seven and eight are also difficult par-4s with seven being uphill and eight being protected by water to the right. The front nine has four par-3s, which is very unique and plays to just 34 strokes. However, it is far from easy, even at just 2,650 yards as the slope is still 126. It is definitely an iron player’s nine. The 10th hole and 11th hole both play with water on the left, leading up to my favorite hole, a short par-4 12th hole. It plays just 325 from the blue and 277 from the white, yet is the No. 3 most difficult hole on the course. This is because the fairway is an island and the green is nearly an island. Two short and accurate irons can lead to a birdie, but going for the green is especially tempting. That is what Mark Gregory and I both did. Neither of us hit good shots, but we managed to avoid all of the water by hitting it around the 11th green. Mark was in a greenside bunker and I was just off the fringe. We still had to play over water and a

Tanna Farms

quick tip: Take 2 to 3 clubs less Location: Geneva, IL best feature: Multiple holes bring for the downhill par-3 holes on the strategy into play. Can either go for the courses. green and risk trouble, or lay up in the fairway.

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Tanna Farms opens with a rare par-3, which plays over water.

bunker though to get to the green. After the short hole, the longest and most difficult hole on the course is next. The par5 13th hole is fairly tight and is 578 yards from the blue. The 14th hole is a dogleg that has some options and some hazards. Mark and I both somehow got pars on it. The 15th is a par-5 with three separate hazards, the 16th is a par-3 over a hazard and the 17th is another long par-5. The 18th is another short par-4 where the fairway is separated by rough near the green and is a good

hole to have a nice finishing score on. The back nine has three par5s and plays 3,081 yards with 37 strokes. Even with three more strokes, it still plays much longer, thanks to the long par-5s. I have played a lot of courses in my life, but not many offer the different options that this one does. Each hole is unique and it is a true “thinkers” golf course where strategy comes in to play quite often. I was told by one of the workers that the course used to be just nine holes and has moved to 18 holes in the past decade.

That would lead to the lone downfall of this course, which was that there was no halfway house with the layout. You go away from the clubhouse and are pretty much on your own until the end. The beverage cart also didn’t take cards, so if you aren’t prepared (which I wasn’t) there is no eating or drinking for your entire round. Despite that fact though, it was a great course to play and it is plenty of fun to hit the different kinds of shots throughout the course. It is definitely one I recommend playing, especially for the money.

Sports

Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

Danny Spinuzza was the 2014 Voyager Media Male Multisport Athlete of the Year.

>> MALE, from page 10 the Raider defense that allowed less than 10 points per game and was named to the Voyager Media All-Area football team. On the baseball field this season, he took his comfortable spot behind the plate as the Raiders’ catcher. He hit .341 with four doubles and 15 RBI.

DRAKE FELLOWS Sophomore was an important part of the Joliet CatholicAcademy basketball team that won a Class 3A regional title this season. The 6-5, 185-pounder helped solidify the Hilltoppers’ frontcourt. Fellows, who has already committed to play for 2014 College World Series champion Vanderbilt, went 6-1 on the mound with a .63 ERA and 77 strikeouts for Joliet Catholic. He was a member of the Voyager Media All-Area team. “Drake really exploded onto scene this spring, tremendous talent that is going to be fun to watch for two more years,” Joliet Catholic Academy baseball coach Jared Voss said.

JOHN HADER Hader, who’ll be running track at Eastern Illinois next spring, became the first athlete in Maine South history to earn state medals in both the 100- and 200-meter dashes.The senior also was an allCSL cornerback, and head coach David Inserra didn’t hesitate to use him offensively to stretch opposing defenses. “We didn’t have to worry about his side of the ball when he was over there covering,” Inserra said. “Just a great kid, a hard worker and used his abilities to the best of what he had. And what a great track season he had.”

CHUCK HUNTER Hunter

moved

back

Romeoville this season and immediately made an impact on the Spartan athletic scene. His biggest impact was as a two-way player on the football field. The junior made defenses weary with his speed. He caught 45 passes for 923 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also had three interceptions on defense and was a member of the Voyager Media All-Area team. “Chuck Hunter is one of the best receiver/cornerbacks I have had the opportunity to coach,” Romeoville football coach Jeff Kuna said. “He has great ball skills and ability to adjust to the ball. As a cornerback he provides great coverage as well as being a very good open field tackler. He definitely provides big play potential every time he touches the ball.” Hunter was a starter on the basketball team under new coach Marc Howard and averaged six points, two rebounds and 1.3 assists per game.

DANIEL JACKSON Jackson, a junior, led Plainfield East to its first playoff berth in school history. A defensive lineman, Jackson spent every game in the opponent’s backfield, before an injury ended his season early. In seven games he had six sacks and 15 tackles for loss, with 38 total tackles. “Daniel was the best defensive tackle in the conference,” Plainfield East football coach Mike Romeli said. “He disrupted play after play and was always in opposing team’s backfields.” Jackson was also a state qualifier in track and field. He qualified in the shot put after a put of 52-feet, 11-inches at sectionals. Jackson had a top put of 47-8 at state. He also took second in the Southwest Prairie Conference in both the discus and shot put.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

>> FEMALE, from page 12 that’s one minute someone else isn’t doing anything.” It goes without saying that all the hard work paid off. Slowek was the second-leading scorer and defensive stalwart on a Maine East girls basketball team that won 20 games and captured the CSL North championship for the first time in school history last winter. She also was a member of the North squad in the Voyager Media Prep Shootout. This past spring, Slowek made her third straight appearance at the Class 3A state meet in the high jump, while also qualifying for state for the second consecutive season in the discus. Slowek’s third time to state was a charm as she won a state medal in the discus, finishing sixth with a toss of 129 feet, 11 inches. “I’m glad I had such a great support system,” said Slowek, who plans to compete in both basketball and track at Carthage College. “I did what I was supposed to do and went above my expectations. I’m grateful I had teammates and coaches that said, ‘It’s now or never.’ ” One of those coaches is basketball coach Karol Hanusiak. “The kid just has such natural athletic ability,” Hanusiak said. “I’ve come across many kids

that have had athletic ability and seen many kids who don’t want to use it. Elanta, she trusted the people around her and her coaches. She had really specific goals and really worked hard in the off-season to achieve those (goals). “Sometimes her biggest enemy was not her competition, but herself.” Hanusiak said Slowek had to learn that she wasn’t always going to be perfect, nor was she always going to be the best on the court or on the track “but it’s OK to have a goal to do that.” “Once she was able to grasp that, that’s when things started to really change for her,” Hanusiak said. Multisport Athletes of the Year in other zones include:

CHAVON BANKS She was second on the Joliet Central volleyball team with 140 kills and one of only three Steelmen to surpass the 100kill plateau for the season. On the basketball court, she averaged 10.5 points and 12.5 rebounds per game for Joliet Central. Banks was named to the Voyager Media All-Area third team and was an invite to the 2014 Voyager Media Prep Shootout all-star basketball game. “Chavon led by example on the court every night by her desire to win,” said Joliet

Sports Central coach Brian Reed.

SIERRA BIRDSELL Lisle senior was a member of the Lions’ girls soccer team.The Lions advanced to the Class 1A sectional final before falling to IC Catholic, 3-2. She had a goal and two assists on the year, and also was in goal for four games, making 40 saves and allowing five goals. Birdsell also was the leader of Lisle’s girls basketball team which reached the Class 2A regional final. She also competed on the winning North squad at the Voyager Media Prep Shootout this spring.

SKYE OSBORNE Being only a sophomore didn’t stop Osborne from being a two-sport varsity starter for the Spartans. In softball, she batted .446 with 14 doubles and 23 runs scored. She was 7-11 with 89 strikeouts in the circle. “She is an all-around great athlete,”said Romeoville softball coach Christina Douglas. A point guard on the basketball team, she tallied 60 assists (led team) and 39 steals (second on team) for Romeoville. She also averaged five points per game.

MICHAELA SCHLATTMAN Only a junior, Schlattman is already a three-time softball

Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Maine East’s Elanta Slowek is the 2014 Female Multisport Athlete of the Year.

regional champion with Plainfield Central. She was the team’s leadoff hitter, batting .457 with 12 doubles, four triples, four homers, 26 RBI and scored 48 runs. “Michaela has been our leading hitter all season,” Plainfield Central softball coach Anne Campbell said.“She does so much for us in the lead-off spot. She

can hit for power, and when she singles, her base stealing success puts her in scoring position. She has also been the team leader on the field.” Schlattman was also a started on the Wildcats’ basketball team. She hit the gamewinning three-pointer in a regional quarterfinal win over Romeoville.

sPorts

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

TOP 10 of the weeK

TWEETS OF THE WEEK

ScoTT’S ToP 10 coloR/STudio commenTaToRS

downers grove south

tim howArd

@TImHoWarDgK

“Happy 4th of July! Couldn’t be more proud to be from and have the chance to represent this country. Enjoy the day! #USA” KAyLA KnApp

@KaYLaKNappfoX

Bill raFterY Fox/CBs College hoops

cHarleS BarKleY CBs/TnT hoops

DaViD FeHertY CBs, Golf Channel clarK KellOgg CBs college hoops JiMMY DYKeS EsPn college hoops

4 5 6 7 8

criS cOllinSWOrtH nFL on nBC tODD BlacKleDge EsPn college football garY MccOrD CBs golf

SteVe StOne White sox baseball

pierre McgUire nBC hockey

disagree with Mark? tweet your top 10 to @hear_the_Beard

#voyagertop10

“Hello new USA soccer fans, there’s this really cool league, @ MLS, where you can watch soccer when the World Cup ends. Check it out.”

pierre the peLiCAn @peLICaNpIerre

“To be fair, we did pretty good for a country that only cares about soccer for 2 weeks every 4 years.” mAJor LeAgue soCCer @mLs

“#BELvUSA was highest-rated soccer match ever on cable”

JoLiet sLAmmers @JoLIeT sLammers

“You guys know we have fireworks AGAIN tonight, right? It’s the 4th inning so you still have plenty of time to get here!”

FEATURING q & a with DANNY SPINUZZA local athletes Basketball

Favorite social media outlet that you use? Twitter How many followers do you have on Twitter? About 460 followers. Who is your favorite pro athlete? Why? Derek Jeter because he’s a class act. How often do you use social media? Who is your favorite person to follow? I use it often to catch up on stuff. What is your most memorable sports moment? Winning regional and senior year sports. Have you ever tweeted a famous person? did they respond? Never tried.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

News

FOURTH OF

July Area businesses keep Joliet’s July 4th Celebration going Editor’s Note: The Joliet Bugle is working with the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry this year on promoting the chamber’s 100th Anniversary. Fireworks lit up the sky above Joliet Memorial Stadium Friday during Joliet’s annual July 4th Celebration, a yearly tradition that goes back nearly 70 years. The Fourth of July fireworks were held at Joliet Memorial Stadium, 3000 W. Jefferson St. The fireworks are sponsored by Joliet-area businesses. The major sponsors this year include D’Arcy Automobiles, Rasmussen College, Union Pacific Railroad, Exxon Mobil, First Community Bank and many more. The evening started off with a short program with former state Sen. A.J. Wilhelmi as the host. The VFW Cantigny Post and Ladies Auxiliary presented the flags with the wonderful voice of Tasha Manard singing God Bless America. The show was synchronized by

music created by WJOL radio.The show was watched by thousands in the stadium and up and down West Jefferson Street. It was a wonderful way to end a lovely day and pay respect to our country; its freedoms and liberties.

PhotoS courteSy oF the Joliet chaMBer oF coMMerce

Colors presented by Cantigny Post VFW #367 and Ladies Auxiliary. Tasha Menard sings the National Anthem during Joliet’s annual July 4th Celebration.

BUsiNess & real estate

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

dave says

Contentment is only a state of being Wealth is for quality of life, and quality of life includes giving By dave raMsey dAVe sAys

daveramsey.com

Dear Dave, My husband has a great job, and I love my work and schedule as a substitute teacher. However, he wants me to take a full-time position so we can build more wealth. The only debt we have is our house, and we’ve already saved and invested a lot of money. What’s your suggestion for this situation? Marie Dear Marie, First and foremost, you two have a responsibility to take care of each other and your own household. It sounds like you’re

couple of years doing that pretty well. So, if earlier. I wouldn’t he wants you to take a fulldo that, and I don’t time job only to build more recommend you wealth, I think that’s a bad do it either. People idea. should do something Wealth is for quality with their lives they of life, and quality of life find enjoyable and includes giving. It also they’re called to do. includes a safe and stable dAVe sAys moNeY aDVICe Now, if your kids future. But if you have to BY DaVe ramseY are going hungry surrender the joy in life to and your bills do that — to build extra aren’t getting paid, then you do wealth or build at a different whatever it takes. But in this case, pace — well, to me that’s just wrong. Contentment has nothing Marie, you’re happy and you guys to do with how many hours you are in a great place. I’m sure your work or how many zeroes are in husband is a great guy, but I think your bank account. Contentment he’s wrong on this one. —Dave has to do with your state of being. It’s connected to your sense of gratitude, happiness You aren’t double dead and your priorities. The idea that contentment is on the same Dear Dave, spectrum as ambition? No, it’s My credit union offers not. free accidental death and I don’t think you should take dismemberment insurance. on a job or a schedule you hate Should I take it? just to pay off your house a Alaina

I don’t think you should take on a job or a schedule you hate just to pay off your house a couple of years earlier. Dear Alaina, That’s fine if it’s free. However, I wouldn’t rely on it as an integral part of my overall financial plan. In most cases, accidental death and dismemberment policies are just a gimmick.You’re not double dead if you die by accident, and your spouse or family doesn’t need the money if you die by accident rather than a heart attack. They need the same coverage and the same protection regardless. When it comes to life insurance, I recommend a good level term policy that’s 10 to 12 times your annual income. That means if you make $50,000 a year, you need $500,000 to $600,000 in coverage. Still, if it’s really free I’ve got

no problem with the policy. Just make sure you’re not paying some other big fee to join a club so you can get “free” stuff. When that happens, it’s not really free after all! —Dave * Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He has authored five New York Times best-selling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover, EntreLeadership and Smart Money Smart Kids. His newest bestseller, Smart Money Smart Kids, was written with his daughter Rachel Cruze, and recently debuted at #1. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 8 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL JULY 9, 2014

THE BUGLE JULY 9, 2014